But if you are really worried about it, know that the mask tends to fade as the dog ages. Young Chows will have a black masking that will fade. Maybe not 100%, but it will blend. Also, that darker coloring is actually a good thing. Cream Chows tend to lose the black in the nose and mouth area. Going pink in those areas is not desirable, so a darker mask indicates they may hold it soft tissue coloring, which is a sign of good heritage and breeding.